rare phenomenon

USAGE SUMMARY

"rare phenomenon" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to describe an event or occurrence that is not common or typical. For example, "The eclipse was a rare phenomenon that many people waited hours to witness."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

"But now, that's a rare phenomenon.

The Washington Post

I thought he was that rare phenomenon - a comic genius.

The Guardian

But it will undoubtedly present astronomers with a valuable opportunity of studying a very rare phenomenon.

The Guardian

He says papers to cabinet were a "rare phenomenon" even in the 1980s.

The Guardian

Nor is it a rare phenomenon, as many people erroneously believe.

The New York Times - Science

They are that rare phenomenon: a band whose considerable success flies below the radar of fashion.

The Guardian - Music

"It is not a rare phenomenon that what is legal may also be quite irresponsible.

The New York Times - Tech

When I entered my mother's apartment, she was in motion a rare phenomenon.

The New Yorker

But in laboratory tests a year later, she exhibited a rare phenomenon.

The New York Times - Health

Healthcare serial killers are an extremely rare phenomenon, contrary to public perception".

The Guardian

Such convergence of entire faunas is a rare phenomenon and Anolis has become a textbook example.

Harvard University

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "rare phenomenon", ensure the context clearly establishes what is considered normal or common against which the phenomenon is being compared.

Common error

Avoid using "rare phenomenon" if the event is simply uncommon but not exceptionally unusual. Ensure it truly stands out from typical occurrences.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "rare phenomenon" functions as a noun phrase, typically serving as the subject or object of a sentence. It identifies something as unusual or infrequent, as seen in Ludwig examples.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

Science

35%

News & Media

55%

Academia

10%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "rare phenomenon" is a grammatically sound and frequently used expression to denote an event or occurrence that is uncommon or exceptional. Ludwig AI validates its correctness and usability in diverse writing contexts. Analysis of its usage reveals a presence in scientific, news, and academic domains, suggesting a formal to neutral register. When aiming for alternatives, phrases like "unusual occurrence" or "infrequent event" can serve as effective substitutes.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

unusual occurrence

Replaces "phenomenon" with "occurrence", focusing on the event-like nature.

infrequent event

Substitutes both words for simpler, more direct alternatives.

scarce instance

Emphasizes the limited number of times it happens.

exceptional case

Highlights the deviation from the norm.

unique situation

Focuses on the singularity and distinctiveness.

isolated incident

Stresses the separation and lack of connection to other events.

atypical episode

Uses more formal language to convey the irregularity.

uncommon spectacle

Highlights the visual or observable aspect.

seldom seen event

Emphasizes the infrequency of observation.

remarkable happening

Highlights the noteworthiness and surprise element.

FAQs

How can I use "rare phenomenon" in a sentence?

You can use "rare phenomenon" to describe an event that doesn't happen often. For example, "The alignment of these planets is a "rare phenomenon"".

What's a good alternative to "rare phenomenon"?

Alternatives include "unusual occurrence", "infrequent event", or "exceptional case", depending on the specific context.

Is it redundant to say "very rare phenomenon"?

While not strictly redundant, "very rare phenomenon" can be acceptable for emphasis. However, consider using alternatives like "extremely rare phenomenon" or "unprecedented event" for greater impact.

Which is more accurate, "rare phenomenon" or "uncommon phenomenon"?

"Rare phenomenon" suggests a higher degree of infrequency compared to "uncommon phenomenon". Use "rare" when the event is truly exceptional and infrequently observed, use "uncommon phenomenon" when the event happens from time to time.